Beyond the NICU: Supporting Parents After Discharge
Walking out of the hospital doors with your baby in your arms is a moment many NICU parents dream of. After days, weeks, or sometimes months spent beside incubators and monitors, the idea of finally going home can feel like crossing a finish line. Friends and family often celebrate with joy, assuming that the hardest part is over.
But for many parents, leaving the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is just the beginning of a new chapter – one that can bring unexpected challenges.
In this blog, we will explore what life beyond the NICU can feel like, why it’s not always as simple as “everything is fine now” , and ways you can support your emotional wellbeing in the weeks and months after discharge.
When Pregnancy Doesn’t Feel Magical: Understanding Antenatal Anxiety and Depression
Pregnancy is often described as a time of joy, excitement, and glowing anticipation. Social media feeds and glossy magazines tend to show smiling bumps, blissful couples, and a picture-perfect journey towards parenthood.
But what if your experience looks very different? What if you don’t feel happy, are constantly worried, or struggle to feel connected to your baby?
In this blog, we’ll explore what antenatal anxiety and depression are, why they happen, and how you can find ways to cope and seek support.
Life in the NICU: What Every Parent Should Know
When you picture bringing your baby into the world, your mind might wander to the first cuddle, the smell of newborn skin, or taking them home in a tiny sleepsuit. For many families, however, those first moments look very different. Instead of leaving the hospital with your baby in your arms, you may find yourself stepping into the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
In this blog, we will walk you through what the NICU is, what to expect emotionally, and gentle ways to care for yourself while your baby receives the care they need.
Restraint Collapse in Children: Why Meltdowns Happen After Nursery and School
Starting nursery or reception is a big milestone for children, and for parents too. It’s often filled with excitement, new friendships, and learning opportunities. But for many families, it also comes with a less talked-about challenge: restraint collapse.
In this blog, we’ll explore what restraint collapse is, why it happens, what it looks like, and most importantly, how to support your child and yourself through this transition.
Do I Have Postnatal Depression or the Baby Blues?
Welcoming a new baby is often described as one of the happiest times in life. But the reality for many new parents is that the early weeks can feel overwhelming, emotional, and even frightening. It’s common to feel overwhelmed, tearful, or anxious after giving birth, and this can leave new parents wondering: “Is this just the baby blues, or could it be postnatal depression?”
In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between the baby blues and postnatal depression (PND), how to recognise the signs, and where to find support if you’re struggling.
Preparing Your Child for Their First Day of Reception: A Guide for Parents
Starting school is one of the biggest milestones in a child’s early years. The first day of reception often brings a mixture of excitement, pride, and nerves for children and parents alike. Walking into the classroom for the first time, meeting a new teacher, and saying goodbye at the school gate can stir up big emotions.
In this blog, we’ll explore why the first day of reception can feel overwhelming, signs your child might be anxious, strategies to prepare you and your child emotionally and practically, and when to seek extra support.